New frontiers in hand arthroscopy

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Small joint arthroscopy in the hand has advanced significantly due to improved scope technology and surgical techniques.
• These advancements enable a wider range of arthroscopic procedures for various small joint pathologies in the hand.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of new and emerging arthroscopic techniques for small joints in the hand.
• To describe the arthroscopic classification and treatment strategies for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis.
• To review arthroscopic approaches for other small joints, including metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and pisotriquetral joints.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and emerging techniques in small joint hand arthroscopy.
• Description of arthroscopic classifications and stage-specific treatments for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis.
• Discussion of arthroscopic management for conditions like synovitis, arthritis, fractures, and gamekeeper injuries in various small hand joints.

Main Results:

• New arthroscopic techniques offer viable treatment options for a spectrum of small joint conditions in the hand.
• Arthroscopic classification and treatment protocols for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis are detailed.
• The article covers arthroscopic interventions for metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, pisotriquetral, and other small CMC joints.

Conclusions:

• Small joint arthroscopy is an evolving field in hand surgery, offering minimally invasive solutions.
• The techniques discussed provide effective management options for conditions ranging from arthritis to traumatic injuries in small hand joints.
• Further advancements in arthroscopic technology and techniques are expected to expand treatment possibilities for hand joint pathologies.